Will a Long Bed Truck Squat More than a Short Bed Truck When Towing a 5th Wheel Trailer

Question:

Is there a difference in the suspension between a Ford or Chev 3/4 ton 6 ft. bed vs 8 ft bed. I have heard that if you are towing a 5th wheel rv, the 8 ft bed will squat under he weight while the 6 ft bed wont. Isnt the 5th wheel prep package on the F250 positioned so the hitch is over the axle in the 8 foot bed? so, wouldnt the load on the suspension be the same regardless of the length of the bed?

asked by: Cyndi L

Expert Reply:

Because the 5th wheel trailer hitch will be centered over the rear axle or slightly in front of it on a short or long bed truck, the result will be the same. One will not squat more than the other.

So what you have said about the prep package for the 2011 and newer Ford trucks is true.

It is better to go with a long bed truck for 5th wheel towing because with a short bed you will probably either need a slider hitch or a Sidewinder replacement pin box in order to make tight turns without hitting the truck cab and trailer together. Since you do not have to use a slider hitch or different pin box on a long bed, the overall cost for the hitch and installation kit is lower.

expert reply by: Michael H